West Hartford, CT ─ The American School for the Deaf (ASD) today announced the opening of the School’s new Technology Center and PrintWorks, a full service print shop.  Made possible by a leadership gift from Hartford Foundation for Public Giving, the generous support of Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority, Farmington Savings Bank and Rotary Club of West Hartford, and in partnership with Xerox, the new facility will enable ASD to provide state-of-the-art education and training for its students and Adult Vocational Services clients.

The educational components of the Technology Center will include Computer and Website Concepts, Business Education and Communication Technology, and Desktop Publishing. All students in grades 6-12 will use the Technology Center through a combination of course offerings, and all Technology Center course components will make use of PrintWorks.

As both a teaching tool and a working business designed to provide quality services at competitive prices for the nonprofit and small business community, PrintWorks will play a unique role. Students will receive training in one- and four-color xerography and hands-on experience in order processing, customer service, data management, accounting and other essential business processes. ASD staff, with many years experience in printing, graphic design and desktop publishing, will oversee order fulfillment and ensure that strict quality standards are met.

About the American School for the Deaf
Founded in 1817, ASD is the nation’s first special education school and the leader in providing comprehensive education, programs and services for deaf and hard-of-hearing people from birth through adulthood. It is the only school in Connecticut exclusively devoted to serving deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals, their families, and the organizations and institutions that serve them. Through its programs and services, ASD enables deaf and hard-of-hearing citizens of all ages to lead rich, productive lives as participating, contributing members of society. For more information contact the American School for the Deaf at 860. 570.2300, or visit www.asd-1817.org.

About Hartford Foundation for Public Giving
Hartford Foundation for Public Giving is the community foundation for the 29-town Capitol Region.  For 80 years, it has built successful partnerships with donors and nonprofits to enhance the quality of life for people in the community.  With assets of more than $640 million, the Foundation awards grants of about $25 million each year and receives gifts from thousands of generous individuals and families.  For more information about the Foundation, visit www.hfpg.org or call 548-1888.